The Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program offers a unique opportunity for individuals receiving disability benefits (SSDI) who wish to return to work. This free and voluntary program is designed to support beneficiaries by providing them with access to employment services, vocational rehabilitation, and other key resources.
While SSDI benefits are those received by workers who have contributed to Social Security for a minimum number of years, the Ticket to Work Program offers free services to people between the ages of 18 and 64 who receive SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for disability. Its goal is to facilitate the transition to employment without losing immediate benefits, according to official data updated as of May 2025.
How to receive SSDI and receive support from the Ticket to Work program
The key benefit is that it allows participants to explore employment options without immediately losing their SSDI benefits or health coverage, such as Medicare.
Through a trial work period, beneficiaries can assess their ability to work while enjoying a financial safety net. They also receive support from employment networks and specialized agencies to help SSDI beneficiaries develop special or new skills and find suitable jobs, ultimately promoting financial independence.
Participation process and eligibility to receive Ticket to Work
To qualify, beneficiaries must receive SSDI or SSI and express interest in working. Registration is completed through the choosework.ssa.gov portal, by phone, or by text message. No physical ticket is required; eligibility is automatically verified upon enrollment in the aforementioned programs.
Services include trial work periods where earnings do not negate benefits. Under 2025 rules, this allows for an assessment of work capacity without financial risk. Medical coverage extends up to 8.5 years after returning to work for SSDI recipients.
The program allows for changing service providers and resolving disputes through advocacy. During the trial phase, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold does not apply. In 2025, this threshold determines when income will be affected by benefits, although it varies by disability type and state.
Working through the program can increase future retirement benefits, as Social Security contributions continue to add to your retirement fund. Those who achieve financial independence can leave SSDI or SSI, but have the option to reactivate them if their disability prevents them from continuing to work.
Remember that even if you’ve previously qualified for SSDI, you’ll still need to undergo periodic SSA reviews to confirm your continued eligibility. This may include medical revisions or tests, for example,
The choosework.ssa.gov website offers free webinars on work incentives. Additionally, the helpline at 1-866-968-7842 provides personalized assistance during work hours. TTY users can call 1-866-833-2967.
